Are Joel Embiid, Paul George playing tonight? 76ers vs. Nets injury report

The Philadelphia 76ers enter Friday night NBA Cup matchup against the Brooklyn Nets in search of momentum, but will once again have to deal with the uncertainty surrounding their star power. With injuries piling up early in the season, the big question heading into tip-off is simple: Will Joel Embiid or Paul George fit the bill?

According to the official league injury reportboth pillars of the franchise remain questionable to play, and their availability may not be determined until closer to game time.

Embiid, who played in just six games this season, continues to sit out to treat a right knee injury.

The reigning MVP has dealt with recurring knee soreness dating back to last season, and the Sixers have taken a cautious approach to avoid long-term risk, especially given the stakes of the new structure heading into the season.

Joel Embiid and Paul George talk at shootaround: pic.tvitter.com/4kSVhcSkKSD

— Adam Aronson (@SikersAdam) November 12, 2024

However, with Philadelphia at 9-8 and an uneven trend, patience among fans is wearing thin.

Paul George’s situation is even more worrying. The star forward has played just three games this season as he recovers from a sprained right ankle.

His status remains questionable, though there is optimism within the organization that his return may be getting closer. Philadelphia traded for George to form a power duo with Embiid, but so far the duo has barely shared a word.

76ers injury status

Philadelphia will also be without key contributors Kelly Oubre Jr. (sprained left knee), Trendon Watford (left adductor strain) and rookie VJ Edgecomb (left calf injury). Adem Bona is listed as probable with a sprained right ankle, while Jared McCain is available but still playing with a thumb splint after surgery.

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On the Brooklyn side, the Nets are also lacking, with Michael Porter Jr., Cam Thomas, Highwood Highsmith and Nolan Traore are among those ruled out.

With both Embiid and George uncertain, the pressure falls back on Tyrese Maxey and the Sixers’ supporting cast. And with implications for NBA playoffs, Philadelphia needs answers and healthy stars sooner rather than later.